Name: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 5.5 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 2 cups cubed ham; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 0.25 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.25 teaspoon salt (add more to taste); 1.25 cups shredded Swiss cheese ((5 ounces)); 0.25 cups grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup Panko bread crumbs; 2 tablespoons butter (melted)

Introduction to Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Casseroles have a magical way of bringing comfort to our busy lives. This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole combines the classic flavors you love from the traditional dish into a cozy, one-dish meal that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings. Who doesn't appreciate a dish that’s both hearty and easy to prepare?

Why you’ll love homemade casseroles

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about making homemade casseroles. They not only provide a generous amount of food for family and friends, but they also allow for creativity in the kitchen. You can put your spin on classic recipes—like swapping out chicken ham for turkey bacon or customizing the cheese sauce to suit your taste. Plus, with a prep time that is typically under an hour and minimal cleanup, casseroles fit perfectly into a hectic lifestyle.

In addition, casseroles are a great way to use up leftovers or ingredients that are hanging out in your fridge. For instance, you can easily incorporate shredded rotisserie chicken or any remaining cheese into this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, reducing food waste without sacrificing flavor. So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Creating a delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is all about the right ingredients! Here’s what you need to make it irresistible.

Essential Ingredients for the Casserole

5 ½ cups shredded rotisserie chicken: Using rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
2 cups cubed chicken ham: This ingredient gives a savory touch that complements the chicken perfectly.

Cheese Sauce Ingredients

For that creamy, dreamy cheese layer, you’ll need:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter: The base for your sauce.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: To thicken the sauce.
2 cups milk: Whole milk is preferred for a richer flavor.
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a kick of flavor.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the sauce.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: A must for depth of flavor.
¼ teaspoon salt: Season to taste!
1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese: The star of the show!
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: For an extra cheesy finish.

Panko Topping Components

To create a crunchy topping, gather:

1 cup Panko bread crumbs: Offers that delightful crunch.
2 tablespoons butter, melted: Helps bind the crumbs together.

With all these ingredients ready, your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole will surely be a crowd-pleaser! Don't forget to check out where to buy these ingredients at your local grocer or online retailers for your convenience.

Preparing Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Making a Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delightful way to enjoy classic flavors in a cozy baked dish. Let's walk through the steps together to create this creamy and satisfying meal.

Gather and Prep Your Ingredients

Before anything else, take a moment to gather all your ingredients. You'll need:

5 ½ cups of shredded rotisserie chicken
2 cups of cubed chicken ham

For the creamy cheese sauce, gather:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon salt
1 ¼ cups shredded Swiss cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

And for that perfect Panko topping:

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons melted butter

Having everything ready makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Dish

Next, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. While it warms up, grab a 9x13 casserole dish and spray it with cooking spray to ensure that your casserole won't stick. This little step can save you from a messy cleanup later!

Layer the Shredded Rotisserie Chicken and Chicken Ham

Now, for the fun part! Start by layering the shredded rotisserie chicken evenly across the bottom of the casserole dish. Then, lay the cubed chicken ham generously on top. The combination of these proteins provides a rich flavor foundation that makes this casserole so delightful.

Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In a saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it turns clumpy. This will create a roux, which thickens your cheese sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk, followed by the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, and salt. Keep stirring for about 3-5 minutes until everything thickens beautifully. Off the heat, stir in the Swiss and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. This cheese sauce is seriously the glue of your casserole!

Assemble the Casserole with Cheese Sauce and Panko Topping

Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the chicken and ham layers, spreading it out evenly. In a small bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs with the melted butter and sprinkle it over the top. This topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy filling.

Bake to Perfection

Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the breadcrumbs to turn golden brown while the casserole bubbles invitingly. Allow it to cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving, giving the flavors a moment to settle.

This Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is not only a feast for the eyes but also for the taste buds. Enjoy it on its own or serve it with pasta or rice. Your friends and family will love this twist on a classic dish that’s truly comforting and satisfying!

Variations on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Healthier Alternatives for Lower Calorie Options

Looking to lighten up your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole? Consider swapping out regular ingredients for healthier options! Use low-fat cheese and Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Grilled chicken breast can replace rotisserie chicken to reduce sodium levels. Additionally, opting for whole grain breadcrumbs instead of traditional Panko can add some extra fiber to the dish. These small changes not only cut calories but also keep your meal nutritious without sacrificing flavor!

Vegetarian Versions

Don’t worry, veggie lovers—this casserole can easily be adapted! For a delightful vegetarian twist on the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, use roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers in place of chicken and chicken ham. Creamy, plant-based cheeses work well in the sauce, and you can even incorporate plant-based protein options like tofu or tempeh for added heartiness. These variations ensure everyone at the table can enjoy a delicious serving!

For more creative ideas, check out this nutritional guide from Healthline.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Tips for Ensuring a Creamy Sauce

To achieve a luxuriously creamy cheese sauce for your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, make sure you whisk the milk in slowly after the flour and butter have cooked together. This helps to prevent lumps. Also, using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-packaged can enhance creaminess and meltability. Consider adding a splash of chicken broth for an extra boost of flavor!

Advice for Perfecting the Panko Topping

For a delightful, crispy Panko topping, be sure to mix the breadcrumbs thoroughly with melted butter; this guarantees even browning. If you want to elevate the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or Parmesan cheese to the Panko mix. Bake until golden brown—this gives a beautiful contrast to the creamy casserole beneath.

Serving suggestions for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Best side dishes to complement the casserole

To elevate your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole, consider serving it alongside these delightful side dishes:

Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment for soaking up that cheesy goodness.
Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or carrots add freshness and color.
Simple Green Salad: A light, crisp salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the casserole.

Ideas for garnishing and enhancing flavors

Enhance your presentation and flavor with these suggestions:

Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or chives adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Lemon Zest: A touch of lemon zest can brighten the dish beautifully.
Sliced Green Onions: Add a dash of texture and color right before serving.

These suggestions will not only complement your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole but also impress your guests! For more inspiration, check out this guide on perfect side dishes for casseroles.

Time Breakdown for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Preparation time
Getting everything ready? You’ll need about 15 minutes to gather your ingredients and layer the chicken and ham in the casserole dish.

Cooking time
Once it's in the oven, allow for 30-35 minutes of baking time. Keep an eye on it; you want that crunchy Panko topping to turn golden brown!

Total time
From start to finish, you’re looking at roughly 50-55 minutes before you can dig into this delicious Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner!

Nutritional Facts for Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Calories per Serving

Each serving of Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole contains approximately 400 calories. This makes it a satisfying, yet not overly indulgent meal option, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Protein Content

Packed with a delightful combination of shredded rotisserie chicken and chicken ham, this casserole boasts a robust 35 grams of protein per serving. It’s an excellent choice for boosting your daily intake, supporting muscle growth and repair.

Sodium Levels

While delicious, be mindful that this Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole contains around 800 milligrams of sodium per serving. If you're watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or reducing the amount of added salt during preparation.

For more insights on maintaining a balanced diet while enjoying comfort foods, check out Nutrition.gov for tips and guidelines.

FAQs about Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole in advance. Just assemble all the layers in your casserole dish, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just pop it in the oven—no need to defrost!

What can I substitute for chicken ham?

If you’re looking to switch things up, consider using turkey ham or even a plant-based alternative. Shredded rotisserie chicken pairs beautifully with either option, providing that savory flavor without losing the dish's essence.

How do I store leftovers effectively?

To keep your Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole fresh, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days, or freeze them for up to three months. Just remember to label the container with the date for easy tracking!

For other storage tips, check out this helpful guide on food preservation.

Conclusion on Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

In summary, the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings the delicious flavors of a classic dish into the comforting embrace of a casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy it on its own, or serve it over your favorite pasta or rice for a satisfying meal!